Why Potentially ASO Titers Might Not Be Elevated

[sf_mom]

Another Interesting Study.

 

http://www.springerlink.com/content/l34qj830548q4q46/

 

 

Streptococcus pyogenes

A Microbiology Project by Charlotte Reese

 

 

Streptococcus pyogenes is not a bacteria that should be taken lightly. Many people carry the bacteria without incident, however it has the potential to cause both mild and severe diseases. Streptococcus pyogenes has claimed many lives, including that of Muppet’s creator, Jim Henson. While most people will only suffer from mild infections, such as strep throat or impetigo during childhood, it is important to understand it’s full pathogenic potential to understand how to identify, treat, and avoid these infections.

Characteristically, Streptococcus pyogenes is a Gram-positive facultative anaerobic bacterium. It is not motile, and does not produce spores. It occurs as long chains of cocci, and occasionally in pairs. Streptococcus pyogenes is classified as Group A streptococcus. Group A streptococci typically have a capsule composed of hyaluronic acid and are beta-hemolytic, which is true for Streptococcus pyogenes.[1] Beta-hemolytic streptococci produce a toxin that forms a clear zone of hemolysis on blood agar, demonstrating its ability to destroy red blood cells. This hemolysis is attributed to toxins formed by Group A streptococci called streptolysins. Streptolysins can destroy not only red blood cells, but also the white blood cells responsible for fighting off bacteria and disease, as well as other body cells.[2]

 

http://pyogenesgonewild.com